Even with the high demand for travel from Manila to Europe, Philippine Airlines (PAL) President and Chief Operating Officer (COO) Capt. Stanley Ng emphasized the critical role of government support in helping mount direct flights to the region.
In a press conference at the French Embassy on May 14, Ng said there may be a PAL plane flying in France in "a year's time," but he clarified that meetings are still being held for the potential operation.
"We're optimistic that it's going to work, but we also need the support of the French Embassy and Philippine government," he said.
Ng told reporters in a sideline interview that competition is a major concern of the airline, especially in justifying fares.
"No airline is flying direct from Europe to Manila because of competition, because competitors can offer cheaper prices. So, how do you compete if the fares that you're going to offer won't make sense," he noted.
"If you ask for help to stimulate both economies, it will stimulate travel. A lot of value will be unlocked if we have a direct flight. We just have to quantify that and see how both sides of the government can support, then it's possible," Ng added.
The support from the government are in the form of reduced take-off and landing charges, or parking fees for instance, which would enable PAL to be more competitive.
"We will find ways to make it happen, make travel into Europe more convenient for every Filipino, and bring in more tourists from Europe to the Philippines," Ng said.